JPH11352057A - Spectrum meter device and integrated spectrum meter device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce cost and simplify operation by processing signal data formed by a detector for integrating a signal for a specific number of flashes with a computer by receiving diffused light due to a beam passing through a sample. SOLUTION: A flash lamp light source 14, a container 16 of a light absorbing sample 18, a detector 22, a lattice 20, an appropriate mirror and an appropriate lens are provided, and a computer 24 is used. A beam 42 from the light source lamp 14 forms a balanced beam 44 through a condensing lens 30 and a collimator lens 34 and passes through the sample 18 in the container 16 through an optical fiber 32. Further, the beam is focused by the detector 22 from the lattice 20 using concave mirrors 41 and 42 through a condensing lens 28 and an optical fiber 40. The detector 22 is provided with a linear array of photodetecting diode, integrates input radiation during a constant lamp flashing, and forms signal data 45 for indicating a sample 18. The computer 24 receives the signal data 45, forms spectrum data by a CPU 52, and displays the data on a screen 58.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a spectrometer device, and more particularly to a spectrometer device having a flash lamp source and of a type in which light is absorbed by a sample, and more particularly to a computer-operated spectrometer device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A spectrum meter device includes a light source, a sample,
It has a diffusing element such as a diffraction grating, a detector, and appropriate junction optics. The detector can be a linear array of diode receptors. Modern devices have a computer, which receives the spectral signals from the detector and processes the signals. In one type of device, light passes through the sample and the transmitted beam is detected. One type of light source is a flashlamp, which allows the sample to be dissolved or suspended in a carrier liquid cuvette.

[0003] Advances in optics, detectors, and computerization have developed the ability to perform very accurate measurements. However, this made the device expensive and complicated to operate. There is also a need for low-cost equipment and simple operation, and in particular, sufficient automation is desired so that the operator has little to do other than select the sample type, insert the sample and start the machine. Blank if sample is in carrier (carrier without sample)
Additional steps to are also desired. Such devices are presently desired in cell biology for the detection of nucleic acid and protein concentrations, including RNA and DNA.

[0004] Low cost elements are subject to fluctuations in terms of performance between devices and also drift in each device. Therefore, automation should be performed for frequent checks and resetting of operating points associated with flashlamp and detector readout, and resetting for narrow range spectra if automation is selected for one sample type. And correction of scattered light and nonlinearity,
As well as the wavelength calibration should be automated.

[0005]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved spectrometer device which is relatively inexpensive and simple to operate. It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus with means for automatically checking and resetting the operating point for optimizing performance, reproducibility and drift correction. It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus with means for resetting the operating point for a narrow range spectrum. Another object is to provide an apparatus with means for correcting scattered light and nonlinearity and calibrating the wavelength. Another challenge is
It is an object to provide a device for calculating auxiliary information relating to a sample and information derived from the input of auxiliary data by a touch screen.

[0006]

The above object is at least partially achieved by the following spectrometer device. That is, the spectrometer device has a flash-type light source, operating means for flashing the light source, a container for the light-absorbing sample, a diffusing element, a detector, and a computer, wherein the light source is a light source for flashing. Emitting a beam, the container receiving the light source beam;
Passing the transmitted beam, the diffusing element receives the transmitted beam and forms a diffused light thereof, the detector receives the diffused light and generates corresponding signal data representing the transmitted beam, and the computer converts the signal data. The corresponding transmitted beam and thus the corresponding spectral data representing the sample in the container. The detector is operated by a computer and groups the signals for a predetermined number of flashes to obtain an integration unit of the signal data.

[0007]

In an advantageous aspect, the light source is flashed with a preselected number of flashes. This total number is equal to a multiple of the predetermined number. The detector forms a plurality of integration units of the signal data accordingly. Corresponding units of the signal data are added to obtain spectral data. Advantageously, the total number of flashes is kept constant for continuous operation of the device, even if the predetermined number changes.

In order to determine a predetermined number of flashes, the apparatus is operated with a preliminary light source voltage and a preliminary number as a predetermined number, advantageously generating preliminary spectral data without a sample. The highest peak in the preliminary spectral data and the height of the associated preliminary peak are detected. The preliminary peak height is compared to the preselected maximum peak height to determine the adjusted number of flashes. This adjusted number of flashes is the number required to obtain the signal data unit and the corresponding spectral data, which is accompanied by a corresponding peak height relative to the highest peak. The corresponding peak height is equal to or slightly below the maximum peak height. The adjusted number is
Stored for use as a predetermined number of flashes in the integration unit for subsequent operation of the device.

The operating means drives the light source with the light source voltage, and the light source has an intensity that depends on the light source voltage. The voltage pulsed to flash the lamp is adjusted to obtain a spectral peak height close to the maximum. In order to carry out this in an advantageous embodiment, the device is operated without a sample and with the adjustment number being a predetermined number of flashes. The operation is first performed with a first light source voltage to generate corresponding spectral data having a first peak height for the same highest peak. The second light source voltage then generates corresponding spectral data having a second peak height relative to the highest peak. A functional dependence (generally linear) between the light source voltage and the peak height is determined utilizing the first and second light source voltages and the first and second peak heights. The operating voltage is determined from this dependency. This operating voltage is necessary to generate the relevant peak height at the relevant spectral position, where the relevant peak height is equal to or slightly below the maximum peak height. The light source voltage is set to drive the light source for subsequent operation of the device.

In another aspect (zoom), the number of flash adjustments is detected from the spectral data for the entire spectral range. However, for the selected sample, the narrow range spectrum within the full spectral range is used. The apparatus is operated with a sample and an adjusted number as a predetermined number of flashes. Corresponding spectral data is obtained in the narrow range spectrum. The highest peak in this spectral data and the corresponding preliminary peak height are detected. An integer ratio is calculated that approximates the actual ratio of the preselected maximum peak height to the preliminary peak height. The adjustment number is multiplied by an integer ratio to determine the number of operations for a given number of flashes. The apparatus then operates with the selected number of flashes using the selected sample. Preliminary spectral data is obtained for the selected sample by the number of flash operations in the narrow range spectrum. The preliminary spectral data is divided by an integer ratio to form sample spectral data representing the selected sample.

[0011] In another aspect, the device is calibrated for wavelength using a light source. In this light source, the light source beam includes a plurality of spectral peaks having predetermined spectral positions. The apparatus is operated to obtain corresponding spectral data including the spectral position of the measured spectral peak. Also, the measured spectral positions are calibrated to predetermined spectral positions.

Another aspect is correction for non-linear response. The apparatus is operated repeatedly with dark samples. The dark sample passes through a transmitted beam of low intensity as compared to the source beam to obtain a series of integral units of dark spectral data. A series is a set of numbers for a plurality of flash units. A sequence of dark spectrum data is obtained over a set number for each of the preselected spectral positions. A master function representing a sequence over a set number is calculated for all preselected spectral positions. The master function is stored and later applied as a correction factor to the measured spectral data for non-linearity correction. Advantageously, the master function is detected as follows. That is, the ratio between the sequential dark spectrum data and the corresponding number of flashes is calculated, and the number of flashes is detected in conformity with the position function for each preselected position. The set of high points and the value for each such high point in each position function are detected, including the highest point for the associated highest position function.
The high point is used to normalize the position function to the highest position function, thereby forming a normalized function set. The normalized functions are averaged to form a master function.

[0013] In the aspect of scattered light correction, the apparatus further comprises operating means for operating the apparatus without a sample, generating open beam measurement spectral data, and further generating standard measurement spectrum data with a standard sample. The standard sample is highly absorbing in the selected spectral range, and spectral data is captured in this range over a selected number of spectral increments. The measured spectral data is divided by the number of spectral increments to form open beam corrected spectral data and standard corrected spectral data, respectively. The scattered light correction values are subtracted from the corrected spectral data to form open beam corrected spectral data and standard corrected spectral data, respectively. The corrected standard absorption is calculated from the corrected spectral data,
A scattered light correction value is repeatedly detected such that the corrected standard absorption is substantially equal to the predetermined standard absorption. In an advantageous aspect for the iteration, the standard corrected spectral data is integrated and normalized to an average, and the coefficients are detected iteratively, such that the scatter correction value is the product of the average and the coefficients. The scattered light correction value is subsequently subtracted from the generated spectrum data to perform correction on the scattered light.

In another embodiment, a monitor is provided for displaying the spectral information, and a touch screen is overlaid on the monitor. The calculation of the auxiliary information relating to the sample is derived from the input of the auxiliary data through the touch screen and the auxiliary information is displayed on the monitor. 1
In one aspect, the auxiliary information can be further derived from the spectral data, and for another aspect, is not further derived from the spectral data.

[0015]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A spectrum meter device (FIG. 1) of the present invention
It has an optical part 12, which comprises a light source 14, a container 16 for a light absorbing sample 18, a dispersive element 20 (preferably a grating), a detector 22 and suitable mirrors and lenses. The device uses a computer 24. Several filters are desired. That is, an optical filter 26 is needed to reduce the overall light passing through the system at each input and output side of the container, with an optical filter 26 at the detector at a portion of the spectrum. In an advantageous embodiment, the light source is a flash lamp.

Advantageously, the light path is from the light source to the container and to the grating optics. This optical path is realized by a pair of optical fibers. A collection lens 30 focuses the lamp on the input end of the adjacent first fiber 32. A collimator lens 34 is located on the input side of the container and forms an expanded balanced beam 36 to pass through the sample. Another collection lens 38 focuses on the input end of the second fiber 40. Light from the end of the fiber is focused by the concave mirror 41 on the grating 20 and from the grating to the detector 22 by another concave mirror 43.

The container 16 for the sample 18 can be of a conventional type, advantageously a cuvette 31, for example 1c
a holder for m ^2. If a cover is not used for the holder, the interior should be painted black and the cuvettes engage relatively tightly and minimize edgeless radiation,
Make the beam entering the holder small enough.

The light source lamp 14 thus emits a light source beam 42 of light, which is directed to the container 16. The container allows the transmitted light 44 to pass through the grating 20. The grating then spreads spectrum 45 to detector 22. The detector forms a corresponding signal data 45 representing the transmitted beam and thus the sample. The lamp unit module 47 includes the lamp 14 and the lamp controller 44. The lamp controller includes a lamp voltage supply unit 46 and a flash trigger unit 48. For example, 12 V power is supplied to the controller (not shown).

Advantageously, all components (including the computer components described below) are contained in one box. With data processing and the controls described below,
The optical elements need not be precise. However, the light source and detector must be stationary during operation.

The computer 24 has an analog / digital (A / D) interface 50, which includes a detector 22 for receiving signal data and controlling its download. The computer further comprises a processing unit (CP) with Motorola 68332
U) 52, wherein the processing unit operates both as a data processor and as a controller for the device. The computer also has a random access memory (RAM) 5
4 Thus, the processor and the controller are operatively connected to the computer. The computer has a clock for synchronously controlling the reading of the detector in relation to the lamp flash. The program for the computer may be in the form of software, but is advantageously programmed as firmware in a read-only memory device (PROM) 56,
For example, it is stored as permanent information in XILINX. Screen 58 displays spectrum and operating information. Operator input can be performed by a keyboard, but a touch screen is particularly convenient. A printer port can be provided. The computer program is advantageously C
⁺⁺ and assembly language. The adaptation of the program to the present invention is easily understood from the flowchart and the description, and can be implemented by those skilled in the art. The flowchart illustrates the means and steps for performing various aspects of the invention. The details of the computer and program are not critical to the invention, and conventional computers and other desired computers and program elements may be used for the purposes described herein as well.

The overall spectral range for the spectrometer-detector configuration of this embodiment is from infrared (IR) to ultraviolet (UV), typically between about 220 and 760.
nm wavelength. However, some spectra can be processed in a narrow range. The preferred detector is formed as a linear array, from which spectral positions are expressed in pixels for computational purposes and, where appropriate, displayed as wavelengths.

The flash lamp controller is connected between the CPU and the light source. The controller on the side of the computer and the lamp controller together constitute control means for controlling both the lamp and the detector. The voltage supply and flash controller are typically incorporated into the lamp unit and are adapted to drive the selected light source.

An advantageous light source 14 is a xenon flash lamp, for example the model LS-225 of EG & G. The lamp vessel is high purity quartz glass, or UV transmissive glass that allows UV radiation at the ends of the desired spectral range to pass. With an associated controller, the lamp generates light, typically at 120 Hz pulses. The pulse is 35 mJ and is substantially rectangular. The lamp voltage from the power supply 46 is variable, and the height of the flash pulse is proportional to this voltage and is therefore controllable. Trigger 48 causes the lamp to flash with a selected series of pulses. It is desired that the device operate at any one time with the same total number of flashes, for example 120 flashes, for each acquisition of spectral data. Alternatively, the lamp is relatively long and can operate almost continuously, in which case the computer processor limits the processing of the received data signal to only a selected number of flashes. However, for lamp life reasons, it is advantageous to limit the flash. Therefore, an instantaneous operation of the lamp that does not require a warm-up time is desired.

The grating 20 is of a conventional type. However, other types of dispersive elements, for example prisms, are preferably used for the grating.

Filter 26 is used to order and level the order of the strong portion of the spectrum. Several secondary spectra from 200 to 400 nm reaching the detector were found in the primary region from 400 to 800 nm. A thin film formed by thin film technology emits a wavelength of 200 to 400 nm, and a wavelength of 400 to 800 nm of the detector.
Block in pixel area.

The filter is on the detector from 400 nm to 5 nm.
Located at a position between 60 nm, it blocks the secondary components of the spectrum and attenuates this part of the spectrum to 35% transmission. The filter allows energy in the ultraviolet range to pass up to about three times without saturating the device.

The detector 22 is a conventional type, or any other type of linear detector desired, and is advantageously a CCD, such as an Oceana.
n Optics Inc, Dunedin, Florida, type 52000. Such a detector has a linear array of light sensing diodes 23 (pixels), with a light sensing diode of 0.34 nm /
It has a nominal spectral resolution of pixels. 20 in total
Forty-eight pixels are exposed to the light spectrum over the desired spectral range. Such detectors have a device structure associated with a diode whereby energy is stored in each pixel until readout is indicated by a computer controller. Thus, the input radiation is integrated during a selected or predetermined number of one or more lamp flashes. Other types of detectors suitable for performing this function, such as CID (charge
injection device) can also be used.

The detector 22 is operatively connected to the CPU 52 via a conventional or other desired A / D device 50, such as a MAXIM 12-bit serial device A / D converter. , Format MAX176
It is. This device converts the analog spectral signal generated by the detector to digital. The A / D supplies the digital spectrum signal 62 to the CPU in the form of a count. This count is an advantageous unit for expressing spectral transparency in calculations. Spectral data (spectrum; or transmission data) corresponds to the total energy that a pixel received during one integration period for a given number of flashes. The A / D supplies data from one pixel simultaneously. The 12-bit A / D is filled with 4096 counts (saturation), which determines the maximum height of the spectral peak at one pixel during data acquisition. The detector can alternatively detect the saturation limit, but preferably the A / D detects the limit. This is because it is the same over the entire spectrum range. A
/ D also transmits addressing commands from the CPU controller to the detector for integration over a predetermined number of lamp flashes associated with lamp operation.

As indicated above, the light sources 14 are flashed by a preselected number (the total number of flashes), eg, 120. Alternatively, the computer processes the data for a period of the total number of flashes, and the actual flash period is extended. This total number is equal to a multiple of the predetermined number of flashes used by the detector for each integration unit. The detector is therefore usually addressed in such a way that a corresponding multiple of the integration unit of the signal data is obtained.
A processor adds the multiples of the units of the signal data to form spectral data. The predetermined number per unit is determined as the number that provides the integration unit within the saturation limit. Such limits are detector or A / D limits. In this example, this limit is assumed that the A / D has a maximum of 4096 counts for each unit.

The signal data from the detector represents the energy of transmission. This is the open beam energy transmission E _o
(Lamp flash, no sample), a specimen transmitted E _s (lamp flash), or blank transmission E _B (lamp flash). Blank permeation is for blanks that are cuvettes or other sample containers with solvent, or blanks that are other carriers without actual sample material. Alternatively, the "blank" can be used as a standard for comparison. Dark transmission represents the background radiation and the noise of electrons captured without lamp radiation and is first subtracted from the raw transmission data. Corrections for scattered light and nonlinearity are described below. This correction is
Wherein the transmission data E _o, is performed with respect to E _s and E _B.

The processor advantageously has a transmittance (E _s / E _o ,
Or converting an E _B / E _o) to the absorption of the sample A _s or blank A _B. Finally, the relative absorption value _AF for the sample is calculated.

[0032] _{A S = smooth (log 10 (} E o / E s)) Formula _{1 A B = smooth (log 10} (E o / E B)) Equation 2 A _F = A _S -A _B Formula 3 where Log ₁₀ is a logarithm with a base of 10, and "smooth
th "is a smoothing of the data by the conventional method, which is a sliding boxcar averaging nine (or other) points for each data point,
Or Savitsky-G using, for example, 19 selected numbers
olay is a smoothing algorithm.

The spectrometer device of the present invention is advantageously configured to be fully automated except for manual sample insertion and operator method selection and sample material type selection. When operation is started 64 (FIG. 2), the operator selects a method on the touch screen 66 and the computer automatically checks several items 68 shown in FIG. Most of these items, including checkout tests, are self-explanatory. An open beam operation 70 is performed to capture baseline data for the operating point and perform wavelength calibration. Just before (or after) this
A dark (background) spectrum is collected 72, advantageously with almost any other data acquisition. Also, prior to the actual sample run 74, a blank spectrum of spectral data is obtained 76, which is performed with the sample support medium without sample. Then, at 77, data from the standard sample is obtained.

The procedure for acquiring a fully corrected open beam spectrum 70 is shown in FIG. Dark spectrum data is collected 72 and checked to see if they are within a preselected range. If any point is outside, an error path 80 is taken. Spectral data is captured 82 and the dark spectrum is subtracted 84. The correction for the operating point 86, the scattered light 88 and the non-linearity 90 will be described below.

The corrected open beam spectrum E _o
(FIG. 5) must resemble the stored reference spectrum E _R. For comparison 91 (FIG. 3), the difference absorption A _D
Are compared.

A _D = smooth (log ₁₀ (E _o / E _R )) Equation 4 This equation should be substantially zero over the entire spectral range. If the number exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 0.03) by more than a predetermined number (for example, 9) of points, the error is corrected or displayed. This procedure alerts the operator to errors (sample in holder), equipment drift (eg, from temperature changes) or equipment malfunction. If there is a drift, the operating point is automatically reset. After this procedure, a new reference open beam is captured 9
3.

"Operating point" 95 refers to operating parameters to optimize performance, in particular the number of flashes for each integrated unit of spectral signal from the detector and the voltage supplied to the flash lamp. Instruct. The object is collected with as much light as practical for each detector readout to determine the optimal number of flashes integrated by the detector and the optimal voltage for the lamp.

To establish a predetermined number of flashes (FIG. 6), the apparatus is operated in an open beam mode 82 (no sample cuvette), a preliminary number of flashes 94 (eg 3 flashes), and a preliminary voltage 96. , Generate preliminary spectral transmission data. (Dark spectrum and no correction for scattered light and non-linearity is required) The highest peak 98 (FIG. 5) in the spectrum of the open beam and its associated pixel location and preliminary peak height 1
00 is determined. Since the peak is typically not in the center of the pixel, conventional procedures are used in early procedures to detect peak location and height. For example, the intersection of a line extrapolated from two neighboring pixels on either side of the peak.

The preliminary peak height is compared 102 to a preselected maximum peak height 104. The preselected maximum peak height is 4096 counts in this embodiment, as shown above. From this comparison, the adjusted number 106 of flashes is determined, for example, by ratio. This adjusted number is the number necessary to form an integral unit of signal data that will yield corresponding spectral data with a corresponding peak height relative to the highest peak. The corresponding peak height is thus equal to or slightly below the maximum peak height. "Slightly below" means below the maximum value and within the range associated with one flash variation in the adjustment number. The adjusted number is
It is stored as a predetermined number of flashes in the integrated unit for subsequent operation of the device. This number is typically 2 to 4 flashes per integration unit. This number therefore supplies a relatively large amount of light in one integration unit, but below the saturation maximum.

Further for operating point determination, the operating voltage is determined after the adjusted number of flashes has been determined.
This is done to get closest to the maximum value. As indicated above, the operating means drives the light source with the light source voltage. This is done so that the light source has an intensity that depends on the light source voltage. In this embodiment using a xenon lamp, this dependence is substantially linear, and in the lamp controller the voltage is the sum of a fixed voltage and a variable voltage from 0 to 150V.

To detect the operating voltage (FIG. 5), the apparatus is operated 82, and then at least twice, in open beam mode, and with the adjusted number 106 as a predetermined number of flashes. The first operation is performed by setting the variable voltage to zero by the first light source voltage 108, and the highest peak (the same peak as that for detecting the number of flashes)
, Corresponding spectral data with a first peak height 110 is generated. The second operation is the second light source voltage 1
12, which involves a variable voltage of 30V. This produces corresponding spectral data with a second peak height 114 relative to the highest peak. Such 2
One operation is sufficient for linear dependence. But if the dependence is non-linear, we do much more.

A function dependency (eg, linear) 116 is detected 118 between the source voltage and the peak height. This is the first
And the second light source voltage and the first and second peak heights. From this adaptation, the operating voltage 12
0 is determined 122. This operating voltage is the voltage required to produce an associated peak height relative to the highest peak, such height being equal to or close to the maximum peak height. "Closely below" means below, but as close as possible to the maximum, for example 40
95 counts. For example, 123V is determined. This operative light source voltage is set to drive the light source for subsequent operation of the device. The adjustment operating point is the drift of the device,
And variations between devices can be compensated.

Advantageously at this stage, another open beam spectrum is captured and stored for future use as a reference spectrum E _R (FIG. 3). Another determination of this reference spectrum can be made initially at the factory or as a running average. However, capture at this stage provides an up-to-date reference and negates initial equipment drift.

The above-described detection of the number of flashes of the integration unit provides a relatively large amount of light in the integration unit.
It is determined to be less than the saturation maximum. This can be extended to encompass non-flash lamps.
Thus, the lamp is continuously on for at least the integration time, and the detector integrates the signal for a predetermined duration to form an integration unit of the signal data. In order to determine the predetermined duration, the device is operated without a sample, the preliminary duration of the integration signal (replace the number of flashes 94, FIG. 6). This generates preliminary spectral data. The highest peak is determined in the preliminary spectral data. This peak has an associated preliminary peak height, which is compared to the preselected maximum peak height,
Determine the adjusted duration (replace the number of flashes 106). This adjusted duration is the duration required to form a unit of signal data and to form corresponding spectral data with a corresponding peak height relative to the highest peak. The corresponding peak height is equal to or approximately below the maximum peak height. The adjusted duration is used as a predetermined duration for subsequent operation of the device.

As indicated above, the device operates over the entire spectral range. A narrow range spectrum is desired for a given type of sample. This is for example 2
20 to 400 nm, or 525 to 760 nm. It may also be desirable to cover almost the entire region and exclude only the upper or lower wavelengths. This is, for example, 230 to 700 out of the entire range of 220 to 700.
It is. The computer processes only data for such a narrow range. The narrow range does not have the highest peak used to determine the optimal operating point for the number of flashes and lamp voltage to achieve maximum transmission of light. Light transmission for the narrow range is not as high as would otherwise have been achieved. A "zoom" procedure is used to adjust the upward light transmission.

For this procedure, the flash adjustment number 106 and operating voltage 120 have been determined as previously described (FIG. 6). When the sample type is selected via the touch screen buttons 124 (FIG. 7), the narrow spectral range 126 (within the full range) is automatically selected (or alternatively as a direct manual selection). The instrument is operated with a selected sample, a predetermined voltage, and an adjusted number of flashes to capture spectral data 128. The processor forms the corresponding spectral data only in the narrow spectral range. The highest peak 130 (FIG. 5) and the corresponding preliminary peak height 132 are detected in this range.

An integer ratio (zoom factor) 134, ie, an integer ratio, is calculated 136. This ratio approximates the actual ratio of the preselected highest peak height 104 (eg, 4096 counts) to the preliminary peak height 132. The zoom factor can be multiplied by the adjustment number (integer), yielding another integer in the flash. Thus, the coefficients generally have a denominator equal to the adjustment number. For example, if the number of flash adjustments is three, the zoom factor of 6/3 is a simple integer such as two, resulting in an increased number of six flash operations. Alternatively, the zoom factor is 5/3, resulting in an increased number of 5 flash operations. Without limitation, the number of adjustments is typically two to six, with a zoom factor of up to about twelve. As the number increases, the total number of flashes (eg, 120) remains the same, so it is desirable that the increased number be divisible by such total number. The adjustment number 106 is then multiplied by this zoom factor 138,
Determine the increased number of operations 140 for a given number of flashes.

The apparatus then operates in a zoom mode, capturing spectral data 144 with the selected sample and the number of operations as a predetermined number of flashes. Preliminary spectral data 146 is formed by the actuation number 140 in the narrow spectral range 126 for the selected sample. The preliminary spectral data is then divided by the integer ratio 134 (preferably after correction for scattered light and nonlinearity) 148,
Sample spectrum data 150 representing the selected sample is obtained. (Sample data acquisition is described in more detail below.) It can be seen that this zoom procedure does not require a flash lamp and can be more generally utilized with a continuous lamp. During the predetermined duration, integration is performed on the detector readings instead of the predetermined number of flashes, and the adjusted duration is used instead of the adjustment number and the operation duration is used instead of the operation number.

Some other decisions are typically made only once at the factory or first, unless significant changes occur in the equipment. The actions and calculations for these decisions need not be incorporated into the automated process of the device.

One such determination is for scattered light, which is unwanted light passing through the detector. In a well-sealed device, the scattered light is primarily due to lattice defects. To determine the correction, the instrument is run on a standard sample. The standard sample has a standard absorption curve, which has high absorption levels at selected spectral positions and low absorption levels at other spectral positions. Industry standards such as sodium nitrite used for measuring scattered light can be used for extension of the present application. It typically has a standard absorption curve, which has about 5 absorptions (no scattered light) at the low wavelength end of the existing range. A standard spectral range at this lower end is selected for scatter detection, which is for example 350-370 nm, with a range of 60 pixels. The absorption of a standard sample measured at low wavelength is generally reduced by scattered light, eg 2.1. For the current operating purpose, the standard high absorption A _Sel achievable is for example 3
And is predetermined for the standard range.

The standard spectral data (FIG. 8) is acquired 152 (preferably corrected for the dark spectrum) for a standard sample in the standard range. And the measured data is in this range (one or more)
15 divided by the number of spectral increments
4. Thus, corrected standard spectrum (energy) data E _Std is obtained. The result data is integrated (added) 156 and the result is the maximum possible value, ie, 4096
Divided by the saturation value of 158 and normalized. As a result, the average energy e to _Std for the standard sample is obtained. The coefficient S is detected iteratively, and is between 0 and 30
It has a value within a preselected range, such as 0, and is preferably due to a binary search. An initial value (150) is selected and a preliminary correction value Σ _p for scattered light is calculated 160 from Σ = S * e ~ _Std . The open beam spectrum E _{o of the} measured open beam spectrum data is also captured 16
2. This data is the most recent from the previous procedure and has been corrected for the dark spectrum and divided 164 by the number of pixels in the range to form the corrected data. The corrected spectrum data E _o and the standard energy data E _Std are corrected by subtracting correction values in preliminary calculation 166 (E _{o ′} and E _{Std ′,} respectively). In other words, 'a _{= E o -Σ p, E Std} ' E o a = E _{St d} -Σ _p. These corrected data represent the preliminary corrected standard absorbance A for the standard sample.
168 converted to _Std (using Eq. 1). This preliminary absorption is compared 170 to a predetermined standard high absorption A _Sel . 17 if this corrected absorption is too high.
2. The problem is indicated. Another S is selected 174: If the corrected absorption is in range but too high, the next factor S is reduced. If it is too low, the next coefficient is increased and the binary search iteration is repeated. 17 if the corrected absorption is substantially equal to the standard absorption and the subsequent change in S is less than a preselected minimum (eg, 2).
6. The iteration is terminated and the last value for { _p is used as the correction value for scattered light 178. Subsequent calculation 1
At 80, the correction value is the measured spectral data E
Spectral data E _corr = E _meas −Σ subtracted and corrected from _meas (open beam, sample or blank)
To form

The use of the factor S for the detection of the correction value ｅ in the form of the integral energy e ~ is advantageous for including a reasonable number of iterations. Another approach to iteration is
This is done by means for repeated determination of the scattered light correction value. For example, the correction value itself can be initially evaluated for a preliminary calculation of the absorption, which is done by repeatedly entering new values on the basis of a comparison with a preset absorption. Similarly, the iteration may stop when the calculated absorption is within a selected minimum deviation from the predetermined absorption. Although particularly suitable for the device of the present invention using a flash lamp, the above procedure for scattered light does not require such a lamp.

Corrections for detector non-linearities (FIG. 9) are also only initially determined unless significant changes occur. A dark sample having a low light beam transmittance is used. The low transmission is uniform throughout the spectral range. The apparatus may be operated repeatedly 182 or to capture a series of integration units 184 of dark spectral data with a dark sample. A series is
For example, starting with 90 flashes, 5 in 17 flashes
For a number set 186 of various numbers of flashes that cover most of the flash range that falls into flashes.

The detector integrates and reads out the spectral data for each number of flashes. In order to reduce the size of the data and calculations, the processor advantageously selects only data for a given preselected spectral location. This is, for example, approximately 10 equally spaced pixels each, and is preferably at a high spectral peak. The maximum number of flashes must be such that all energy is passed almost equivalent to saturation (eg, 4096 counts). The result is a sequence of dark spectral data over several sets of flashes for each preselected pixel.

Thus, for each preselected pixel, there is a curve 188 of the spectral transmission data versus the rising input energy. This input energy is represented by the number of consecutive flashes. If the device is linear, this will be a straight line. But in general there is a drop in the curve. The ratio 190 of the sequence dark spectrum data (representing the transmitted energy) to the number 186 of flashes (representing the input energy) is calculated 192. The ratio versus flash number is fitted 194 (eg, by least squares) to a position function 196 for each pixel. This gives a separation function for each 10 pixels. The plot of each function will be a horizontal straight line if the instrument is linear, but such plots generally show a smooth curve with peaks. Each pixel has a similar curve but at different levels, and each curve has one high point. There is a peak curve with a peak (generally not an integer flash count). The height 198 of this highest point is detected 200, compared to another high point 204, and the position function is normalized to all other curves, thereby providing a function normalized for each pixel that is almost equal. A set 206 is formed.
The normalized functions are combined 208. This combination is performed, for example, by superimposing different least square fits. This least squares fit is applied to all functions to form a master function 214 of energy transmission versus flash count. This function represents transmitted energy versus input energy. Other methods of combining, such as averaging, can be used. The high point can be replaced by a point on the curve with any selected pixel. The master function is stored as a master data table of correction factors and is applied to the measured spectral transmission data. This is divided by the transform coefficients 218 to linearize the actual spectral data to form corrected spectral data. This conversion factor is associated with the measured data point 220 in the table.

Returning to the open beam sequence (FIG. 4), a correction 88 for scattered light and a correction 9 for non-linearity
After 0, wavelength calibration (FIG. 3) is performed 222 (FIG. 1).
1). The selected lamp, in this embodiment a xenon lamp to be flashed, emits a source beam. The source beam has a plurality of spectral peaks, the spectral peaks having predetermined known positions (FIG. 5). Processing of the spectral data 82 calculates the measured spectral position 224 of the spectral peak. This is determined by extrapolation from adjacent pixel pairs as described above. The fit of the ratio 228 of the measured position to the known position 229 for the xenon lamp light to a function 228 is for example done by the least squares method. Further calculations result in a calibration table 232 of the measured spectral positions relative to the predetermined spectral positions. This stored table is updated with each open beam operation.
It is understood that this wavelength determination is made by a stationary light source having a spectral peak instead of a flash light source. Alternatively, wavelength calibration can be performed without correction for scattered light or nonlinearity. Similarly, calibration can be performed with the sample in place.

After the aforementioned open beam operation, a blank sample is inserted into the container. The container is a cuvette or other sample container, with a solvent or other carrier without the actual sample. By pressing a button 234 (FIG. 12) on the touch screen, dark spectrum data is collected 236 and examined 237. Next, spectral data is obtained 238 for the blank.
The dark spectrum is subtracted from the blank spectrum and 2
40, correction for the scattered light 88 and the non-linearity 90 is performed. Ratio 242 to open beam, smoothing 2
Absorption 246 (Eq. 2) is calculated using the 44 and logarithms. An ultraviolet inspection is performed 248. At some wavelengths (eg, 260, 280, and 3)
If it exceeds 20 nm) 1, a problem is indicated. The pixels are converted to wavelengths 250 to obtain spectral information for the black sample. The calculation is speeded up by conventional techniques, for example using "floating point" averaging. This averaging takes the average of each other pixel in ratio calculation 242.

Next, the sample is inserted into the container. Button operation 252 (FIG. 13) on the touch screen causes the dark spectrum to be collected again 72, providing a pre-scan for capturing preliminary spectral data for the sample. The dark spectrum is subtracted 256 and a correction is made to the scattered light 88. At this stage, the zoom factor 134 is calculated as described above (FIG. 7). This corresponds to an initial button selection 124 of the sample type in the relevant narrow spectral range. If the spectral range for the selected sample type is the full range, the means and steps from the prescan are omitted at this point and the zoom factor is one.

A dark sample is collected 258 in the selected zoom mode (narrow spectral range, if any). The spectral data is then captured 260 in the zoom mode for the sample, and the dark spectrum is subtracted 262. Corrections are made for the scattered light 88 and the non-linearity 90, and the result is divided by the zoom factor 134. Open beam ratio 270, smoothing 2
Absorption 274 (Eq. 1) is calculated using the E.72 and log. After conversion to a wavelength of 250, the blank absorption was subtracted 276 and the final absorption spectrum A _F (Eq. 3)
Is obtained for the sample, which is displayed on the screen.

Other processing beyond the current scope of the present invention can be performed. This includes, for example, calculating and displaying concentrations at several wavelengths, absorption ratios, calculating and displaying spectral differences from different samples, comparing stored spectra to identify sample compositions, and the like.

Auxiliary Information In another embodiment, the device accepts operator input of auxiliary data related to the sample grade and calculates auxiliary information derived from this input.

The term “auxiliary data” referred to herein and in the claims is data entered by the operator and does not include spectral data captured by the device,
Data used directly to calculate special information. Similarly, "auxiliary information" is additional or supplementary information to information calculated from spectral data. "Sample grade" refers to the general type of sample that is of interest to the user. In this particular example, it deals with nucleic acids in the field of microbiology and relates to proteins, especially DNA and RNA. Also, in the petrochemical field, samples include hydrocarbon fuels, additive derivatives or chemical derivatives. Incorporating auxiliary computations into the device is particularly useful in more complex fields, such as microbiology. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily identify sample types, auxiliary calculations, and useful databases in the art.

Typically, by displaying spectral information,
Information similar to the corrected spectrum, the concentration of the sample calculated therefrom, and some relevant parameters are displayed. On the other hand, the auxiliary data can be, for example, a dilution factor and other data that are input for concentration calculation by an operator, and the latter is auxiliary information used for sample preparation. Other examples are calculation of the proportion of sample additives, conversion of units, correction of concentrations for radioactive decay, and the like. The processor also includes a database of permanently stored data or terms, conversion factors, the like relating to sample grade, where the auxiliary data is simply a search term selected from a list on the touch screen. Such auxiliary data or information need not be coordinated with such retained spectral information or computer processing of its computation. Alternatively, the auxiliary information can be further derived or calculated from the spectral information held in the processor by command operations. Alternatively, the calculated auxiliary information is automatically fed back to the main processing and used to obtain spectrum information.

Since the device is typically used for a particular field, it is particularly advantageous if the device is dedicated to a particular technique such as microbiology, petrochemical or elemental analysis. In such a case, the auxiliary database, calculations and displays are similarly dedicated. By incorporating such computing power along with the instrument functions, auxiliary calculations and information recovery related to the sample and its analysis become very convenient for the operator. Such a device may have, for example, about a dozen such auxiliary calculation modes. Specific examples of such modes are given below for microbiology.

To implement the auxiliary aspects, a touch screen 59 (FIG. 1) is attached to the monitor and the touch screen and C
Overlaid by the interface to the PU. The monitor displays function display buttons (icons) or alphanumeric codes. The operator touches a button on the screen to select an item or enter data. The firmware program associated with the touchscreen package with interface 61 can be conventional or any other desired system that can be easily adapted to the current situation.

EXAMPLES The following series of examples of display and auxiliary operations relate to microbiology. The display or operation is
Obtained on a device monitor with a touch screen. The start display (FIG. 13) appears when the device is turned on. This is the nucleic acid page, which provides options for normal instrument operation for the selected sample type, associated spectral data and output information. The touch buttons and the desired output spectral information for the sample type will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, and the selection will begin execution as described above. Tabs are provided for alternative actions or information. Selection (by touch) on the Protein page tab extends the execution choices for other proteins. Use the General and Options pages to change instrument settings or executables, and change other action buttons to Nucleic Acid
Or it can be added to the Protein page etc. Lab
Tools displays options for auxiliary calculations and databases (FIG. 14). The calculations are quite simple or very complex. Buttons are touched to select the desired action. The following further examples illustrate each of these. The equations or equations for the calculations are obvious in most cases.

An oligo temperature calculator (Oligo Tm Calculato)
r) (FIG. 15) is an oligonucleotide (oligomer)
Calculate the dissolution temperature of the short DNA portion of. This is Ol
igo 1 and Oigo 2 (including DNA ends 5 'and 3'). The sunken box receives the data entry,
Information is calculated. In this case, it is temperature. “M” is mole. The downward arrow (or otherwise upward) selects another range, eg, mM to μM. The algorithm in this case is “Nearest Neighbor Analysis” by
K. Breslauer et al., Proceedings of National Academy
of Sciences, vol. 83, pages 3746-3750 (1988).

A continuous diluent calculator (Dilution
The Series Calculator (FIG. 16a) calculates sample preparation information from the input of the desired starting and ending concentrations, the number of diluents, and the container volume. N-Fold Dilution (Fig. 16b)
Calculates the starting volume and dilution volume.

Reagent Usage Calculator
ator) (FIG. 17) calculates the reagent cost over time. Radiolabel Caculator
(FIG. 18) provides the amount of reagent to be used, corrected for radioactive decay. Reactons, Reagents and dN
PCR Master Mix Calculator with three tabs labeled TPs (FIG. 19)
a, b, c) provide mixing information. The terms are conventional in the art, eg, "dNTP" is deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate, P1 and P2 are primers,
“Taq” is a DNA polymerase enzyme and “Rxn” is a reaction.

Amino Acid Table
(FIG. 20) is an example of sample database information, in which amino acids based on the conventional three-letter code are obtained with the first letter code. Similarly, Codon Tabel
(FIG. 21) shows the sequence of three adjacent nucleotides for an amino acid.

DNA / protein converter (DNA / Prot
ein Converter) (Fig. 21) is the DN in one helix structure.
Convert between A amount, amino acid amount and protein amount.
(“Dalton” is 1 g / mol) Similarly, the Oligo Data Converter (FIG. 23) converts between moles, mass, and ODU (optical density units) for the input oligomer length. The Moles / Grams Converter (Figure 24) converts between molecular weight (MW), mass and moles.

The Lab Timer uses a computer clock to indicate time and generates audible signals for counterdown (FIG. 25a), time lapse (FIG. 25b), and real-time alerts (FIG. 25c). The conventional calculator (FIG. 26) is for other calculations, and the program can enter the result in the field where the calculator was called.

The above detailed description of the present invention has been made with reference to a specific embodiment, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the invention is limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a spectrum meter device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart for a general operation sequence of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart for an open beam operation and processing by the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a detailed flowchart of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 shows a typical open beam spectrum for the open beam of FIG.

6 is a flowchart for determining an operating point for the device of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for modifying the operating point of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for correcting scattered light in the apparatus of FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for correcting non-linearity in the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for performing wavelength calibration in the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart for a blank operation and processing by the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart for a sample operation and processing by the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 shows online help.

FIG. 14 shows a lab tool.

FIG. 15 shows oligo Tm calculations.

FIG. 16 shows concentrations and N-Fold dilutions.

FIG. 17 shows a reagent usage calculator.

FIG. 18 shows a radioisotope calculator.

FIG. 19 shows a PCR master mixing ratio calculator.

FIG. 20 shows an amino acid table.

FIG. 21 shows a codon table.

FIG. 22 shows a DNA / protein converter.

FIG. 23 shows an oligo data converter.

FIG. 24 shows a gram / mole converter.

FIG. 25 shows a lab timer.

FIG. 26 shows a calculator.

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued on Front Page (72) Inventor David Jay Eaton United States Connecticut Newtown Sawmill Ridge Road 4 (72) Inventor Gerald Tea Paul United States Connecticut West Port Steep Hill Road 121 (72) Inventor Jay Fenton Williams United States Connecticut Brook Field Stony Hill Village 72 (72) Inventor Mark W. Strouse United States Connecticut New Canaan Harrison Avenue 66 (72) Inventor Stephen El Paul United States Connecticut Ridgefield Prospect Street 120-33 (72) Inventor A Drew P. Bajorinazu United States Connecticut Stumpf Odo Stillwater Road 721

Claims (32)

[Claims] 1. A flash-type light source for emitting a light source beam to be flashed, operating means for flashing the light source, a container for a light-absorbing sample receiving the light source beam and passing the transmitted beam, Receiving the beam,
A diffuser element for forming its diffused light, a detector for receiving the diffused light and forming corresponding signal data representing the transmitted beam;
Processing means for receiving the signal data and forming corresponding spectral data representative of the transmitted beam, and thus the sample in the container, said detector comprising integrating means for integrating the signal over a predetermined number of flashes Forming a signal data integration unit. 2. The operating means flashes a light source for a preselected number of flashes, the total number of flashes being a multiple of a predetermined number, and wherein the detector is operatively connected to the operating means, and Forming a plurality of integration units correspondingly, wherein said processing means comprises adding means for adding a plurality of units of signal data, forming spectral data;
The device according to claim 1. 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said operating means keeps the total number of flashes constant even when the predetermined number changes, for continuous operation of the apparatus. 4. The operating means is operatively connected to the processing means to determine the predetermined number of flashes, and operates the apparatus without the sample with the selected light source voltage and the preliminary number as the predetermined number. Means for generating preliminary spectral data, the processing means comprising means for detecting the highest peak in the preliminary spectral data, and the associated preliminary peak height, and the preliminary peak height. Means for comparing with a preselected maximum peak height to determine an adjusted number of flashes, wherein the adjusted number of flashes comprises a unit of signal data and a corresponding number with a corresponding peak height for the highest peak. The corresponding peak height is equal to or slightly below the highest peak height, and the adjusted number is As a predetermined number of flashes in one integral unit, a subsequent operation to be stored for use, according to claim 1, wherein the device. 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the apparatus is operated without a sample and generates preliminary spectral data. 6. The operation means for operating the light source with a light source voltage such that the light source has an intensity dependent on the light source voltage and further obtaining an associated peak height at an associated spectral position. Means for determining a voltage, wherein the associated peak height is equal to or slightly below the maximum peak height, and the operating light source voltage is set to drive the light source for subsequent operation of the device. An apparatus according to claim 4. 7. The operating means further comprises means for operating the device with the adjusted number as a predetermined number of flashes, wherein the operation first comprises a first light source voltage to a first peak height relative to a highest peak. Performing a corresponding spectral data with a second peak height with respect to the highest peak by means of a second light source voltage; The peak is determined in the preliminary spectral data and has an associated spectral position; the processing means further comprises means for determining a functional dependence between the light source voltage and the peak height; Is performed using the first and second light source voltages and the first and second peak heights. Further, from the function dependency, the related peak height is related. Means for determining the operating voltage required to obtain at the spectral position, wherein the associated peak height is equal to or slightly below the maximum peak height, and the operating light source voltage is used for subsequent operation of the device. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the device is set to drive a light source. 8. An apparatus for generating preliminary spectral data without a sample, and with a first peak height and a second peak height.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the apparatus is operated to generate corresponding spectral data with a peak height of. 9. The adjusted number of flashes is determined by the processing means to obtain spectral data for the entire spectral range, wherein a narrow spectral range within the full spectral range is selected for the selected sample; The operating means further comprises means for operating the apparatus with the selected sample and the adjusted number as a predetermined number of flashes, the processing means further comprising: obtaining corresponding spectral data in a narrow spectral range. Means, a means for determining the highest peak in said corresponding spectral data and a corresponding preliminary peak height, and an integer ratio approximating the actual ratio of the preselected maximum peak height to the preliminary peak height. Means for calculating the number of operations and the number of operations for a predetermined number of flashes by multiplying the adjustment number by the integer ratio. The operating means further comprises means for operating the apparatus according to the selected sample and the number of operations as a predetermined number of flashes, and the processing means further comprises: Means for obtaining preliminary spectral data for the sample in the narrow spectral range by the number of operations, and means for dividing the preliminary spectral data by an integer ratio to obtain sample spectral data representing the selected sample. 5. The device of claim 4, comprising: 10. The operation number is determined without a sample,
An apparatus according to claim 9. 11. The operating means flashes the light source with a preselected number of flashes, the total number being a multiple of a predetermined number, and the detector operating to obtain a corresponding plurality of integration units of the signal data. 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the processing means includes an adding means for adding a plurality of units of the signal data to obtain spectral data. 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the operating means keeps the total number of flashes constant even if the predetermined number fluctuates due to continuous operation of the apparatus. 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source beam has a spectral peak with a predetermined spectral position, the apparatus further comprising: the processing means obtaining corresponding spectral data, including a measured spectral position of the spectral peak. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising operating means for operating the apparatus, wherein the operating means further comprises calibration means for calibrating the measured spectral position to a predetermined spectral position. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the apparatus is operated to obtain a measured spectral position without a sample. 15. The control means further comprises means for operating the apparatus repetitively with a dark sample, the dark sample passing a low transmitted beam as compared to the source beam, whereby dark spectrum data is transmitted. Obtaining a series of integration units, the series being a set of various numbers of flash numbers, the processing means further comprising means for obtaining a sequence of dark spectral data over a number set for each of the preselected spectral positions; Means for calculating a master function representing a sequence over a set of numbers for all the preselected spectral positions, said processing means further storing the master function and using the master function as a correction factor to measure the measured spectral data. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is adapted to correct nonlinearity. 16. The means for calculating a master function calculates a ratio between the continuous dark spectrum data and a corresponding number of flashes, and calculates the ratio for the number of flashes for a position function for each preselected position. The set of high points and the values for each such high point are determined in each position function, including the highest position for the associated highest position function, and the position function is used to convert the position function to the highest position function. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising means for normalizing to, thereby forming a set of normalized functions, averaging the normalized functions, and forming a master function. 17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the predetermined number of flashes is one for one integration unit. 18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein one function data point is the highest point of the function data. 19. The apparatus further comprises means for operating the apparatus without a sample, generating open beam measured spectral data, operating with a standard sample, and generating standard measured spectral data, wherein the standard sample is selected. The spectral data spans a selected number of spectral increments within the selected spectral range, wherein the processing means divides the measured spectral data by the number of spectral increments. Means for forming the open beam corrected spectrum data and the standard corrected spectrum data, respectively, and means for subtracting the scattered light correction value from the corrected spectrum data to form the open beam corrected spectrum data and the standard corrected spectrum data, respectively. , Corrected standard absorption Means for calculating the yield from the corrected spectral data; means for iteratively determining the scattered light correction value such that the corrected standard absorption is substantially equal to a predetermined standard absorption; and generating the scattered light correction value later. Means for subtracting from the obtained spectral data and performing scattered light correction. 20. The means for iteratively determining comprises means for integrating, normalizing and forming an average of the standard corrected spectral data, and iteratively determining the coefficients as follows: 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the scattered light correction value is determined iteratively to be the product of the average and the coefficient. 21. A light source that emits a light source beam of light, a container for a light-absorbing sample that receives the light source beam and passes a transmitted beam, and a diffusing element that receives the transmitted beam and forms diffused light therefrom. A detector for receiving said diffused light and forming corresponding signal data representing a transmitted beam; and a process for receiving said signal data and forming a transmitted beam, ie corresponding spectral data representing a sample in a container. Means, wherein the detector comprises integrating means for integrating the signal for a predetermined duration and forming one integration unit of the signal data, wherein the predetermined duration is To determine, the operating means is operatively connected to the processing means for operating the device without sample and with a preliminary duration of the integrated signal, Means for generating a maximum peak in the preliminary spectral data, an associated preliminary peak height, and a preselected maximum peak height. Means for comparing with the height to determine an adjusted duration necessary to obtain one unit of signal data and corresponding spectral data with a corresponding peak height for the highest peak, The corresponding peak height is equal to the highest peak height,
Or slightly below, wherein the adjusted duration is stored as a predetermined duration for subsequent operation of the apparatus. 22. The adjusted duration is determined by processing means to obtain spectral data for the entire spectral range, wherein a narrow spectral range within the full spectral range is selected for the selected sample; Further comprises means for operating the device with the selected sample and the adjusted duration; the processing means further comprising means for forming corresponding spectral data within the narrow spectral range; Means for determining the highest peak of the peak and a corresponding preliminary peak height, and means for calculating an integer ratio that approximates the actual ratio of the preselected maximum peak height to the preliminary peak height. Multiplying the duration by the integer ratio to determine an operation duration, the operation means further comprising: Means for operating the device according to the selected sample and the operating duration, the processing means further comprising: forming preliminary spectral data for the selected sample in the narrow spectral range with the operating duration. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, comprising means and means for dividing the preliminary spectral data by a simple ratio to form sample spectral data representing a selected sample. 23. A spectrometer device comprising means for wavelength calibration, the device comprising a light source for emitting a light source beam, and the light of the light source beam comprising a plurality of spectral peaks having predetermined spectral positions. A container for a light-absorbing sample that receives the source beam and passes the transmitted beam; a diffusing element that receives the transmitted beam and forms diffused light; and receives the diffused light and represents the transmitted beam. An apparatus comprising a detector for forming corresponding signal data and processing means for receiving said signal data and forming a transmitted beam, i.e., corresponding spectral data representative of a sample in a container, the apparatus further comprising: Operating means for operating the apparatus such that said processing means forms corresponding spectral data, including the measured spectral position of the spectral peak; A, said operating means further comprises means for calibrating the measured spectrum position for a given spectral position, it spectrometer apparatus according to claim. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said apparatus is operated to obtain a measured spectral position without a sample. 25. A spectrometer device having means for correcting scattered light, the device comprising a light source emitting a light source beam of light, a light absorbing device receiving the light source beam and passing a transmitted beam. A container for the sample, a diffusing element for receiving the transmitted beam and forming diffused light thereof, a detector for receiving the diffused light and forming corresponding signal data representing the transmitted light, and the signal Processing means for receiving the data and forming a transmitted beam, i.e. corresponding spectral data representative of the sample in the container, and operating the device without the sample, forming the open beam measurement spectral data and operating with the standard sample; Operating means for forming standard measurement spectral data, wherein the standard sample is highly absorbing in a selected spectral range; Over the selected spectral increments within the selected spectral range, the processing means dividing the measured spectral data by the number of spectral increments to form open beam corrected spectral data and standard corrected spectral data, respectively. Means for subtracting the scattered light correction value from the corrected spectral data to form open beam corrected spectral data and standard corrected spectral data, respectively, wherein the corrected standard absorption is substantially equal to the predetermined standard absorption. Means for iteratively determining a scattered light correction value so as to have a means for correcting the scattered light by subtracting the scattered light correction value from spectral data generated later. Meter device. 26. The means for iteratively determining means for integrating and normalizing standard corrected spectral data to form an average, and iterating the coefficients such that the scattered light correction value is the product of the average and the coefficients. 26. The device according to claim 25, comprising means for determining the position. 27. A display monitor, means for displaying spectral information on the monitor, a touch screen overlaid on the monitor, and calculating auxiliary information derived from auxiliary data input via the touch screen. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising means for displaying the auxiliary information on a monitor, the auxiliary information being associated with the sample. 28. A spectrometer comprising a spectrometer, a data processor, a display monitor, a touch screen overlaid on the monitor, and light means for forming a light beam representative of a sample, the spectrometer receiving the light beam; An integrated spectrometer device for forming spectral signal data representative of the light beam, wherein the processor receives the signal data and calculates corresponding spectral information representative of the light beam, and means for displaying the spectral information on a monitor. And means for calculating auxiliary information derived from the auxiliary data input via the touch screen, and means for displaying the auxiliary information on a monitor, wherein the auxiliary information relates to the sample. An integrated spectrum meter device. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the auxiliary information for at least one form of information is further derived from spectral information. 30. The auxiliary information for at least one form of information is not derived from spectral information,
30. The device according to claim 29. 31. The auxiliary information for at least one form of information is not derived from spectral information,
29. The device according to claim 28. 32. The device of claim 28, wherein the device receives a microbiological sample.